No-Tip Restaurants Are Gaining Popularity in New York City
Leaving a tip has been a part of American dining culture for years, so much so, that most never question the origins of the tradition. Most recently, no-tip restaurants in New York City are gaining in popularity for a wide variety of reasons.
Where did the custom of tipping actually come from? Why are some restaurants who abandoned tipping, once again using the policy? Why is no tipping popular with some restaurants and not others? Why are no-tip restaurants in New York City becoming their norm?
The Not So Great History of Tipping in America
Way back in the days, European aristocrats would provide servants and hosts financial gratuities. This practice eventually made its way to America, and the 1800s those who wanted to express their Euro sophistication, would leave tips. The meaning of the word is uncertain, some believing that “tip” is actually an acronym which means “to insure promptness,” while others believe it means “to give.”
Regardless, restaurants used tipping as a policy so that they didn’t have to pay their waiters and waitresses, who were often freed, Black slaves.
While there is currently diversity in the restaurant industry, this does not mean that tipping ensures that workers are paid correctly.
Problems with American Tipping Culture
One of the biggest problems with tipping culture in America is that many workers receive a low minimum wage, which they can possibly make up in tips. There is a huge imbalance in pay and these workers wages are dependent on the success of the restaurant.
Cooks and other workers in the back of the restaurants often make less. On top of all of this, many workers tolerate sexual harassment and other obscene behavior from customers, because they don’t want to jeopardize their chances to receive tips, which make up the base of their wages.
New York State Minimum Wage Increase
In 2015, Governor Cuomo raised the minimum wage for all workers. As a result, all tipped workers wages increased, ensuring that they would make at least the minimum wage amount. This resulted in many restaurants changing their scheduling, staffing and reducing hours. So while many workers receive more hourly, they’re earning less.
No-Tip Restaurants in New York City
After adapting to the policy change, no-tip restaurants in New York City are gaining popularity. Many restaurants have found ways to ensure that their workers are paid adequately, while reasonably raising prices.
Other restaurants have stressed “hospitality-included” service which makes the premise and custom of tipping unnecessary. Patrons have had mixed feelings initially, but many appreciate the new policy and prices because they understand that it means workers are paid fairly. They also understand that they’re not utilizing an antiquated custom.